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Hypodermoclysis Rate and Technique — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ

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EasySyringe Driver & Drug CompatibilityHypodermoclysis Rate and TechniqueSCE Palliative Medicine

A 55‑year‑old woman with advanced cancer is being managed at home with subcutaneous fluids (hypodermoclysis) for mild dehydration. She already has a CSCI running at a different site. What rate should her subcutaneous fluids be administered?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Typically 500–1000 mL over 12–24 hours (approx. 40–80 mL/hour), since subcutaneous absorption is slower and faster rates cause local swelling and discomfort

Option E is correct. UK NHS guidance (Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust) recommends prescribing subcutaneous fluids as 1 L over 12–24 hours (approximately 40–80 mL/hour) and limiting volume per site (no more than 2 L in 24 h per site). This aligns with other UK regional policies such as NHS Tayside, which standardised to 60 mL/hour. This rate accommodates slower subcutaneous absorption and minimises local complications. Option B is incorrect — continuous gravity infusion is standard. Option C is incorrect — syringe‑pump CSCI rates (e.g. 0.5–2 mL/min) are specific to medications, not fluid infusion. Option A is dangerously high and appropriate only for IV resuscitation. Option D is overly conservative and not aligned with accepted UK practice.

Reference: Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Formulary: Subcutaneous Fluids (hypodermoclysis), reviewed October 2023. https://www.leedsformulary.nhs.uk/docs/Hypodermoclysis.pdf